Mauritania Desert & Heritage Expedition
- Nouakchott (NKC)
- 9 Days / 8 Nights
- 01-09 February 2026
- Tour Style: Desert • Culture • UNESCO Sites • Adventure • Iron Ore Train
Itinerary
Arrive in Nouakchott and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit
the Camel Market, the lively Port de Pêche, and the Great Mosque of
Nouakchott.
Overnight: Hotel (Nouakchott)
After breakfast, visit the National Museum. In the afternoon, drive
(approx. 4 hours) to the Azoueiga sand dunes. Set up camp and enjoy a
spectacular Sahara sunset.
Overnight: Desert camping
Off-road journey to Chinguetti, one of Mauritania’s historic holy cities.
Visit the ancient manuscript libraries and the iconic Friday Mosque.
Sunset over the dunes.
Overnight: Guesthouse (Chinguetti)
Travel through desert landscapes toward Ouadane, stopping in
Tanounichert for tea with locals. Explore Ouadane’s historic streets and
admire the Richat Structure (Eye of the Sahara).
Overnight: Hotel (Ouadane)
Drive toward Terjit with stops at Agrour for prehistoric rock engravings
and Mheirith Oasis for lunch beneath the palms. Arrive in Terjit, a
beautiful oasis with natural pools and shade.
Overnight: Terjit
Depart for Choum via Atar to purchase supplies if needed. Board the
Mauritania Iron Ore Train for a legendary overnight journey across the
desert (open-top wagons). Warm layers, scarf, and dust protection are
recommended.
Overnight: On the Iron Ore Train
Arrive in Nouadhibou and transfer to your hotel to rest and refresh. Free time to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Overnight: Hotel (Nouadhibou)
Early departure back to Nouakchott. Stop for lunch at Tiwilit, where
golden dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean. On arrival, visit Zein Art Gallery
for local crafts and souvenirs.
Overnight: Hotel (Nouakchott)
Transfer to the airport for departure.
Highlights
- Nouakchott: Camel Market, Port de Pêche, Great Mosque
- Azoueiga Dunes: Sahara sunset & camping under the stars
- Chinguetti (UNESCO): Old town, manuscript libraries, Friday Mosque
- Ouadane (UNESCO) + Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure)
- Prehistoric rock art at Agrour
- Mheirith Oasis lunch under palm trees
- Terjit Oasis: natural pools & palm canyon
- Iron Ore Train: overnight desert crossing
- Nouadhibou: coastal rest day
- Tiwilit: dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean
Included
All transportation (4×4 vehicles) throughout the tour
Professional local guide
Accommodation: hotels, guesthouses, and desert camping (as per itinerary)
Camping equipment (tent + mattress)
Iron Ore Train experience
Meals as listed in the itinerary
Visits and stops mentioned in the program
Excluded
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for guide/drivers
Drinks and meals not listed